Easter Baskets, etc

A thread on the Parenting board regarding Easter baskets got me thinking...

My ILs typically give huge Easter baskets with real presents like toys and clothing and candy, etc. to all of the granchildren...my children included although I really don't like it. I've never heard of this before joining their family and it is not a practice I intend to start with mine. I guess it's the hypocrisy that irks me especially with them...they've never attended weekly mass or holiday mass in all the time I've known them, but yet they "celebrate" Easter, kwim? In addition...

What are your thoughts on "gift giving" at Easter? I mean beyond the candy...real presents. Does it diminish the religious significance of the holiday in your mind? Will Easter end up as commercialized as Christmas is? Any other thoughts?

Re: Easter Baskets, etc

I don't think it dumbs down the importance of Easter. When we were little we got candy, but once we got older (ie over age 12) my mom would get us a little gift (like $20-$30 value) as our easter basket. My family still goes to mass on Easter and understands the significance of the holiday

Re: Easter Baskets, etc

I see your point. That would annoy me as well. I always thought of Easter (and now with DD around) as a fun, yet spiritual holiday. To be honest, I do let the spiritual part fall by the wayside a little (we always go to church.) I get more excited about the promise of spring & good weather than anything else. As far as gifts, I like to just give small things and do try to limit my contribution to the commercialization of it.

Re: Easter Baskets, etc

I kind of think a present is a present - so if a child is going to receive a basket full of candy or a basket of books the message is the same. In order to keep the easter bunny seperate from the regligious significance is in the hands of the parents, their church and through religious education.